Ferguson wants focus from United

05 January 2011 07:00

Sir Alex Ferguson has told his Manchester United players to dismiss the critics and concentrate on reclaiming the Premier League title.

United extended their unbeaten run to 20 matches this season and opened up a three point lead over nearest challengers Manchester City and Arsenal thanks to a 2-1 win over Stoke at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

Yet even two excellent goals from Javier Hernandez and Nani left many feeling underwhelmed at the general performance of the team, but Ferguson said: "We are an easy target for that kind of thing. But we just have to dismiss it and concentrate on our ambitions and that is to win the league."

No one could quibble about the quality of United's goals.

Hernandez struck for the ninth time in his debut campaign, meeting Nani's low cross with a deft back-flick that took it past Asmir Begovic.

Then, after Dean Whitehead had nodded home a shock leveller five minutes into the second period, Nani clinched the points, curling home in sublime fashion after the Portugal winger had been given too much time to turn on the edge of the area.

From Hernandez in particular, it was the perfect response after the Mexican was given his chance whilst Wayne Rooney rests the ankle injury that he suffered at West Brom on Saturday.

"Of course it gives me a problem when Wayne is fit," said Ferguson.

"But that is the kind of problem you want. Over the years, the strikers I have had have always given me that problem.

"That is Chico's job. And as long as he keeps putting the ball in the net, he is giving me those problems."